Dricus du Plessis and His Brothers: The Bond That Built a Champion

In the world of professional sports, few things are as valuable as a strong support system. For UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis, that support comes from his brothers, Niel and WC du Plessis. They aren’t just his family—they are his best friends, mentors, and biggest supporters.

Dricus himself has expressed how much they mean to him, once stating:

“My big brothers and my best friends in the world! Without them, I wouldn’t be half the man I am today. Thank you for everything.”

These words reflect not just admiration but also the deep influence and impact his brothers have had on his life. But who are Niel and WC du Plessis, and how have they helped shape the UFC fighter’s journey? Let’s take a closer look at the unbreakable bond that has helped create a world-class athlete.

The du Plessis Family: A Legacy of Strength and Support

A Strong Foundation in South Africa

The du Plessis family hails from South Africa, where values of discipline, resilience, and ambition were instilled in the three brothers from a young age. Their parents, Japie and Gerda du Plessis, raised their sons with a strong emphasis on faith, hard work, and perseverance—qualities that would later prove essential in their professional lives.

While Dricus pursued MMA, his brothers took different paths, but their shared determination, loyalty, and mutual encouragement have kept them closely connected.

Meet the Brothers: Niel and WC du Plessis

Niel ‘Steel’ du Plessis: The Fighter and Legal Expert

Standing at 6 feet tall, Niel du Plessis—often called “Steel”—is both a former professional MMA fighter and an accomplished lawyer.

Niel’s MMA Career

• Professional debut: 2016
• Fighting promotion: Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC)
• Record: 3 wins, 2 losses (2016–2020)
• Fighting style: Grappling and striking

While Niel did not pursue a long-term MMA career, his experience in the sport allowed him to mentor and train alongside Dricus, offering insights and firsthand knowledge of the challenges that come with professional fighting.

A Career in Law

• Education: University of Pretoria (Graduated 2013)
• Specialization: Family, employment, and corporate law
• Current role: Director at Modiba du Plessis Attorneys

Niel is an admitted attorney of the High Court of South Africa, proving that discipline and perseverance extend beyond sports. His ability to balance combat sports and law is a testament to the du Plessis family’s work ethic.

WC du Plessis: The Business Mind

Unlike his brothers, WC du Plessis did not enter the combat sports world. Instead, he thrived in the business sector, proving that success takes many forms.

• Current role: CEO of Orzella Investments CC, a Johannesburg-based investment firm
• Industry: Corporate finance and wealth management

Though WC stays out of the public eye, his financial expertise and leadership have made him an inspiration to his brothers, especially in understanding long-term career management and business strategy.

Dricus du Plessis: The Youngest, Yet the Strongest

Born on January 14, 1994, in Welkom, Orange Free State, South Africa, Dricus du Plessis has become a global sensation in MMA.

A Look at His Career

• Nickname: “Stillknocks”
• Professional record: 21 wins, 2 losses (as of 2025)
• Championships: UFC Middleweight Champion
• Fighting style: Powerful striking, elite grappling, and endurance

Dricus’s rise to MMA stardom was not a solo journey. It was fueled by the constant support, motivation, and training sessions with his brothers.

Brotherhood: The Ultimate Weapon in Dricus’s Success

1. Training Partners and Mentors

Since childhood, Dricus and Niel trained together in judo, wrestling, and kickboxing, building a strong competitive spirit between them.

• Niel’s experience in EFC helped guide Dricus through his early career.
• Sparring sessions with his brother sharpened Dricus’s striking and grappling.
• Mutual discipline and shared training regimens helped both brothers grow stronger.

Even though Niel left the MMA scene, he continues to offer advice, legal insights, and emotional support, ensuring Dricus stays focused.

2. Business and Financial Guidance from WC

Becoming a world-class athlete isn’t just about winning fights—it also requires strong financial management, brand development, and career longevity.

• WC’s success in corporate finance has given Dricus a strong financial roadmap.
• With his guidance, Dricus has made smart investments and sponsorship deals.
• WC helps Dricus navigate the financial side of being an elite athlete.

With WC’s business acumen, Dricus ensures that his career remains profitable and sustainable even after his fighting days are over.

3. Emotional Strength and Unbreakable Support

While the physical and financial aspects of Dricus’s career are critical, the emotional support from his brothers is just as important.

• Win or lose, Niel and WC have been by Dricus’s side.
• Their faith and shared family values keep Dricus grounded.
• Dricus has openly credited his brothers for shaping his character.

Having two brothers who believe in him unconditionally allows Dricus to face any challenge with confidence and resilience.

A Family Built on Strong Values

Faith and Spiritual Strength

The Du Plessis family’s Christian faith has been a cornerstone of their strength. In 2013, Dricus openly declared his faith, and his spiritual foundation has been crucial in:

• Maintaining humility despite fame.
• Finding peace in high-pressure situations.
• Keeping a strong sense of purpose beyond MMA.

Their shared belief system has given them the moral compass to navigate both personal and professional challenges.

Education and Intellectual Growth

Even in a physically demanding sport like MMA, the Du Plessis family values education.

• Niel’s legal career proves that sports and academics can go hand in hand.
• WC’s financial background has helped the family make smart investment choices.
• Dricus, while focused on fighting, has learned important business and legal lessons from his brothers.

This intellectual balance ensures that Dricus’s career will continue to thrive even after his MMA days are over.

What’s Next for the Du Plessis Brothers?

As Dricus continues to defend his UFC Middleweight title, his brothers remain his rock and support system.

For Dricus:

• Continue his UFC reign and build his legacy.
• Expand his business ventures with WC’s expertise.
• Give back to South Africa’s MMA community by mentoring young fighters.

For Niel:

• Grow his law firm and expand into sports law.
• Support Dricus with legal and contractual matters.

For WC:

• Further his investment firm’s success.
• Continue guiding Dricus in business and finance.

Final Thoughts: Brotherhood Is the Secret to Greatness

Dricus du Plessis may be a dominant force in the UFC, but he is not alone in his journey. Niel and WC have been his mentors, training partners, and advisors, shaping him into the man and champion he is today.

Their story is proof that brotherhood, loyalty, and shared values can create champions—not just in sports but in life.

As Dricus continues his rise, one thing is certain: his brothers will be there every step of the way.